The Best Powered / Unpowered Pedalboards

This guide was originally published on Apr. 7, 2017 and last updated on Apr. 18, 2018.

In addition to keeping your stompboxes organized, pedalboards address clutter, storage, gear protection and transport needs. Here we take a look at the current top rated and highly recommended boards, updated for 2018, divided into two categories that feature market favorite traditional pedalboards (without built-in power supply), and powered pedalboards.

The Best Pedalboards

Our research highlighted the fact that market leaders Pedaltrain and Gator really are the favourites of users and reviewers, in fact they took up much of the space in the list below. We also found that while powered boards are quite popular, ordinary unpowered pedalboards have fewer complaints, which is a likely testament to the benefits of being able to select and fit power supplies separately.

Pedaltrain Nano+ Pedalboard with Soft Case

92

GEARANK

92 out of 100. Incorporating 175+ ratings and reviews.

Street Price:

$70

Manufacturer:

The Pedaltrain Nano+ is a compact pedalboard that has more horizontal space (18") to work with. This extra space allows for up to 6 standard size pedals side by side, while reducing the space between the two rails slightly. Instead of a traditional wooden board, it features two rails crafted from lightweight aircraft grade aluminum. This streamlined design reduces weight drastically and gives it improved durability. It comes bundled with a 36" adhesive Hook-and-Loop strip that is used to fasten pedals on the board, so you can set up your gear right out of the box. It also comes with a number of zip ties, which work together with the open rail design in keeping your board clutter free. Finally, it ships with a basic soft case for convenient storage and transport of the aluminum frame, pedals and cables.

Features:

Frame: Lightweight Aircraft Grade Aluminum 2-rail Setup

Inclination: Flat

Dimensions: 18" x 5" x 1.4"

Softcase Dimensions: 18.25" x 6.5" x 3.25”

Weight: 1.2 lbs

Pedal Fastener: 36" Adhesive backed Hook-and-Loop

Accessories: Assorted Zip Ties.

Pros

Reliability and ease of use are two main reasons why most users give the Pedaltrain Nano+ high ratings. Many find it to be ideal for use with standard and mini-size pedals, with some reporting that it allows for a bit more room while keeping bulk and weight acceptable.

Cons

While the board itself did not get any complaints, there are a few who are not too happy with the storage bag's lack of pocket for storing cables. Lack of proper space and mounting for a power supply also came up a number of times.

Overall

If you're looking to expand to six regular sized pedals while still keeping your rig reasonably light and compact, then check out the Pedaltrain Nano+.

Pedaltrain Metro 16 Pedalboard with Soft Case

Street Price:

Manufacturer:

Pedaltrain's Metro series features the same powder-coated aircraft grade aluminum railings that are favored for being lighter and stronger than conventional plywood boards. The main difference that the Metro series offers is its 3 railing configuration and non-angled flat profile. The 3-rail design is specifically meant for musicians with pedals that have different shapes and sizes. The top rail is ideal for accommodating taller pedals, or for positioning compact pedals horizontally. The same standard Pedaltrain features apply, including the use of adhesive back Hook and Loop pedal fasteners, bundled zip ties and a padded cordura nylon gig bag. You can avail yourself of the Metro 16 TC if you prefer one that is bundled with a hard case, and you can also check out wider variants, the Metro 20 and Metro 24.

Features:

Frame: Lightweight Aircraft Grade Aluminum 3-Rail Setup

Inclination: Flat

Dimensions: 16" x 8" x 1.4"

Softcase Dimensions: 17.75" x 9.75" x 4.5”

Weight: 1.6 lbs

Pedal Fastener: 48" Adhesive backed Hook-and-Loop

Accessories: Assorted Zip Ties.

Pros

The Pedaltrain Metro 16 SC is rated highly for its rigid build, and for the convenience it offers. Many guitarists find that the 3-rail design made pedal setup easier, while keeping the size and weight manageable. Most of the positive ratings are from musicians who have small to medium size rigs, and prefer their pedals on a non-angled board.

Cons

There are a few users who wished that the price was a bit lower. While a few complain about the lack of bottom space, but this is an obvious physical limitation when compared to other angled Pedaltrain models.

Overall

If you're looking for a professional looking pedalboard to tidy up your pedals and cables then check out the Pedaltrain Metro 16.

Pedaltrain Novo 18 SC Pedalboard with Soft Case

Street Price:

Manufacturer:

There's no doubt that Pedaltrain is the brand to beat, as attested to by actual reviews and ratings. They are known for their use of light and sturdy aircraft grade aluminum metal, which are joined together in an open rail design. The Novo 18 in particular has a taller 5-rail configuration that easily accommodates around 18 standard size pedals, and can easily handle a mixed bunch with wider and taller stompboxes. The board is angled for easy foot placements, and to make space for a power supply and cables underneath. This sloped design together with the use of hook-and-loop velcro allows for flexible pedal positioning and a clutter-free setup. The Novo 18 SC comes with a basic soft case, you can also get one with bundled hard case for improved protection. Also note that the Pedaltrain Novo series is available in other sizes, which include 24" and 32" wide models.

Features:

Frame: Lightweight Aircraft Grade Aluminum 5-rail Setup

Inclination: Angled

Dimensions: 18" x 14.5" x 3.5"

Softcase Dimensions: 20" x 17" x 5”

Weight: 4.0 lbs

Pedal Fastener: 90" Adhesive backed Hook-and-Loop

Accessories: Assorted Zip Ties.

Pros

Many users describe the Pedaltrain Novo 18 SC as having the perfect combination of size, reliability, and functionality for their needs. A good number are happy with the strength of the frame especially when considering its weight, while others commend its solid velcro connections.

Cons

Some users rate the Novo 18 SC a bit lower because the soft case does not have a zipped pocket for storing cables and other tools. There are also a few who had issues with some of the velcro getting loose while inside the soft case and traveling. I can imagine this happening when the storage is positioned improperly (vertically as opposed to horizontally on the floor).

Overall

Since, as of the time of publication, it is currently the highest rated pedalboard on the market, the Pedaltrain Novo 18 SC gets our highest recommendation.

Gator GPB-LAK-1 Aluminum Pedalboard Small (15.75" x 7")

Street Price:

Manufacturer:

The Gator Aluminum Pedalboard series wins the heart of many guitarists with its white, orange and green color options, but don't fret if you're a hardcore metal guitarist who want black on everything from your eye shadow, to your guitar, to your nails - they do offer one in black. Instead of utilizing rails, Gator opted for a solid but thinner profile, while providing streamlined perforations in just the right spots for clutter-free cabling. This particular model is 15.75" wide, which is enough width to carry up to five regular size stompboxes side by side (with cables). To secure the pedals, it comes with adhesive hook and loop strips, while the underside features no-slip rubber for stability. Finally, it comes bundled with a polyethylene storage bag.

Features:

Frame: Aluminum Alloy Pedalboard

Inclination: Angled

Dimensions: 15.75" x 7" x 2.25"

Case: Soft Nylon Carry Bag

Weight: 5 lbs

Pedal Fastener: 3M Dual Lock Hook and Loop

Features: Cable routing perforations for routing your signal and power cables, 4 colors to choose from

Pros

Most of the high ratings that this board receive are from users who are impressed with its combination of slick looks and durability. Some even report using the board at home for mounting compact mixers and other gear. The included carrying bag also got a lot of praise, which is not surprising since Gator is known for their quality gig bags and instrument cases.

Cons

Not much in the way of complaints, other than a few who caution that most guitarists will probably outgrow this small board.

Overall

If you're looking for a slick looking board for your minimalist pedal setup, then get the Gator Aluminum Pedalboard Small.

You can buy the Gator GPB-LAK-1 Aluminum Pedalboard Small (15.75" x 7") from:

Amazon

Gator GPB-BAK-OR Aluminum Pedalboard Large

92

GEARANK

92 out of 100. Incorporating 100+ ratings and reviews.

Street Price:

$150

Manufacturer:

Gator continues to break the monotonous black color theme of aluminum pedalboards in the market, this time capturing the fancy of guitarists with a large size board that comes in various color finishes. As the name implies, it is crafted from aluminum, which is preferred by many for it is strength and lighter weight. It has an angled profile and features routing perforations for clutter-free positioning of your cables underneath the board. The Gator Aluminum Pedalboard Large is 23.75" x 10.6" and allows for up to 12 standard size pedals, which is right around the usual number of pedals gigging guitarists tend to lug around - even if they don't regularly use more than half of them during performances. Like the smaller version, it utilizes adhesive hook-and-loop strips to secure your pedals, and features no-slip rubber feet for stability. You can store the board along with the pedals you've attached on it inside a polyethylene-reinforced carry bag with removable shoulder strap. It's true standout feature is its color variants, which include black, green, orange and white.

Features:

Frame: Aluminum Alloy Pedalboard

Inclination: Angled

Dimensions: 23.75" x 10.66" x 2.98"

Case: Soft Nylon Carry Bag

Weight: 9 lbs

Pedal Fastener: 3M Dual Lock Hook and Loop

Features: Cable routing perforations for routing your signal and power cables, 4 colors to choose from

Pros

Most of the users were impressed by its overall quality and color options. Many experienced users commended the Gator Aluminum Pedalboard for having a well thought out design, with its angled profile and cable routing holes. The bundled nylon carry bag also got a lot of praise from users who found it to be of better quality compared to the competition.

Cons

There were some users who had to improvise to get their power supply secured under the board, but this is expected since there really is no standard size and shape for them.

Overall

There's no better choice if you're looking for a ready-made colorful metallic pedalboard.

You can buy the Gator GPB-BAK-OR Aluminum Pedalboard Large (23.75" x 10.6") from:

Amazon

Gator G-Tour Pedalboard Large

93

GEARANK

93 out of 100. Incorporating 50+ ratings and reviews.

Street Price:

$220

Manufacturer:

With their experience in building instrument and gear cases, Gator is in a good position to build quality ready-to-use pedalboards. And that is exactly what they did with the G-Tour Large Pedalboard, combining traditional elements with modern reliability and portability. It starts off with a plywood frame that can house 10 to 14 pedals, and features aluminum valance for added structural strength. Your stompboxes are secured via 3M Dual Lock hook and loop fasteners, and it has 2 rubber grip handles that let you pull out the board from the case, for a more traditional flat on the floor setup. Other features include retractable tow-handle, built-in cable storage (under the pedalboard), inline skate wheels, shock absorbing EVA foam interior, lockable latches, and protective ball corners that protect the case from impact at vulnerable edges. Finally, a smaller variant of the G-Tour is available, in case you want something more compact but with the same road/air worthy features.

Pros

Many musicians tout the Gator G-Tour Large as a true roady worthy pedalboard. It is used by many to carry and protect different kinds of pedals, including big multi-effects processors like the Line 6 Helix. The G-Tour's Modular removable pedalboard design also gets a lot of thumbs up, while its tour ready hardcase give many guitarists the worry free travel that they deserve.

Cons

Some users caution that this heavy duty pedalboard is indeed heavy, they warn that you may end up damaging other gear, or injuring yourself if you're not careful. It is also bulky and will require a bit more trunk space than you'd expect.

Overall

The Gator G-Tour is definitely tour ready, get it if you're looking to carry multiple pedals to different venues and want the reliability of a solid flight case.

You can buy the Gator G-Tour Pedalboard Large (24" x 11") from:

Amazon

A Popular Budget Option

Donner DB-3 Aluminium Pedalboard with Case

87

GEARANK

87 out of 100. Incorporating 225+ ratings and reviews.

Street Price:

$72

Manufacturer:

This Donner DB-3 pedalboard carries over the same stability and portability of other rail-type almunimum boards, only this one is much more affordable. While it may not have the same quality and weight reduction, it will get the job done at a more reasonable price, which is what matters for most guitar players. The DB-3 has four aluminum rails with a 20" x 11.4" space for fitting in a good number of pedals, (around 12 standard size ones) for the money. Mounting your preferred power-supply will also be easy thanks to its angled design. It comes bundled with a 60" roll of hook-and-loop, which you can use to secure your pedals, and it also comes bundled with a bag that can provide storage and transportation safety (albeit not much) for your rig.

Features:

Frame: Aluminum Alloy

Inclination: Angled

Dimensions:20'' x 11.4'' x 4'’

Weight: 2.54 lbs.

Accessories: 1 x 60" Hook-and-Loop, 1 x Canvas Bag, 2 x Buckle

Pros

Value for money is the Donner DB-3's strong point, as attested to by many users who feel that they got more than what they paid for. Users comment that it can handle pedals of different shapes and sizes rather easily, and more importantly, it holds them securely.

Cons

Most of the negative feedback point to the quality of the included bag, which one user describe as a dust cover. But this is to be expected, given the board's very affordable price tag.

Overall

If you're looking for a budget friendly solution for organizing your stompboxes, then do check out the Donner DB -3.

The Best Powered Pedalboards

Here we look at the best powered pedalboards, most of them come with built-in power supply for powering multiple pedals, while a few others come with at least the wiring for powering up multiple pedals. This can be a more convenient option than the DIY approach of purchasing and fitting your power supply separately but there are some things to watch out for. Since pedals can have different power requirements (Voltage, Current Draw, Connector), you should check to make sure of the compatibility of the bundled power supplies. Some of the powered pedalboards below offer 18V power options, but if you're using pedals that are powered by standard 9V adapters then these complications shouldn't apply. Note that many of these pedalboards are tailored to the manufacturer's standard pedal size, which means that fitting bigger or even smaller than regular pedals will requires some careful planning.

Boss BCB-30 Pedalboard

90

GEARANK

90 out of 100. Incorporating 550+ ratings and reviews.

Street Price:

$60

Manufacturer:

The Boss BCB-30 pedalboard case brings with it the company's brand of reliability and durability, designed for storing up to three standard size Boss pedals. It is basically a sturdy carrying/storage case that can double as a pedalboard, albeit with strict requirements when it comes to the shape and size of the pedal, following after Boss' stompbox design. You simply unlatch the lock and take the top cover off to use it as a board, and re-attach the cover when you're ready to move out. Note that if you don't already have one then you'll have to purchase a separate PSA 120s power supply, but other than that, it does come with all the necessary cables - including a power daisy chain cable, and patch cables for connecting the pedals. Note that if you are using the Boss TU-3 Tuner Pedal, you won't need to get a separate power supply because it can supply power for other pedals via the daisy chain cable.

Pros

Many consider the Boss BCB-30 as the best compact pedalboard and storage case for Boss pedals. But it's not only for minimalists with small rigs, because space limitation actually helped liberate some users from their big rigs, making them realize that they can make good music with just three pedals or less. Reliability and portability comes up often among reviews, which is expected since this case is from a company that's well known for their build quality.

Cons

Space limitation comes up a number of times, especially from those who want to use standard size pedals. There are also a few who complained about the lack of a bundled power supply although many Boss pedal users will already have a compatible power supply pedal or adapter.

Overall

Whether you are an experienced player who want to drastically streamline your rig, or you are a beginner who just want something affordable yet reliable, then the Bos BCB-30 is ideal for you.

You can buy the Boss BCB-30 Pedalboard from:

Amazon

Boss BCB-60 Powered Pedalboard

88

GEARANK

88 out of 100. Incorporating 750+ ratings and reviews.

Street Price:

$180

Manufacturer:

The Boss BCB-60 pedalboard is essentially a plastic box that can carry multiple stompboxes and morph into a pedalboard complete with power supply. It is wide enough for carrying around six Boss size pedals, and has the capability to power up to seven of them. Note that you can fit a wah pedal, or other taller pedals inside the right side of the board by removing the wire holder bar up top. Staying true to Boss' reputation for durability, both the exterior and inner-frame of the BCB-60 are crafted from impact resistant molded plastic resin, strong enough to handle the usual road trip bumps. And since it's made of plastic, it is relatively lighter and more importantly - affordable.

Pros

Those who have favorable opinions of the Boss BCB-60 describe it as a very practical board. Many guitarists and bassists are happy with how it proves to be an all-in-one pedalboard and power supply solution for their needs. A lot of users are impressed with how it helped them reduce cable clutter and simplifying their rig. Many guitarists and bassists also appreciate its portability and how easy it is to open and close for every gig.

Cons

There are a few who are concerned that lid latches are frail. They recommend carefully securing the latches and handling the unit with care, because they experienced having some of them break or open while in transport.

Overall

If you've got 6 or fewer pedals, and you're looking for a compact powered pedalboard that doubles as a hardcase, then get the Boss BCB-60.

You can buy the Boss BCB-60 Powered Pedalboard from:

Amazon

Gator GPT-BL-PWR

84

GEARANK

84 out of 100. Incorporating 80+ ratings and reviews.

Street Price:

$150

Manufacturer:

The Gator GPT-BL-PWR is the smaller version of the GPW-PRO-PWR, with space for up to 8 regular size pedals. The frame follows traditional plywood design, albeit covered in tolex for a more premium look. The face of the board is covered in velcro for attaching your guitar pedals, velcro strips for the pedals are included in the package so you can setup your gear right out of the box. It also has the same sloped design that allows for a G-Bus 8 power supply to be secured under the board, with cables that can power up to eight 9V pedals and one 18V pedal (and 2 more if you get extra connectors). Finally, this 16.5" x 12" board is bundled with a carrying case with a nifty pocket for storing compact gear and even cables.

Pros

Rugged and easy to carry around is a good representation of actual market sentiment. Many are satisfied with the pedalboard's solid build and feel, and almost all users agree that the included carrying case is road worthy.

Cons

Some users express concern over the bundled G-Bus-8 power supply, warning that the thin power cable may give out at the most in-opportune time, especially if you're not careful with handling.

Overall

If the size is right for your needs and if you prefer traditional plywood based pedalboards over plastic ones, then get the Gator GPT-BL-PWR.

You can buy the Gator GPT-PWR Powered Pedalboard from:

Amazon

Gator GPT-PRO-PWR Powered Pedalboard

84

GEARANK

84 out of 100. Incorporating 450+ ratings and reviews.

Street Price:

$200

Manufacturer:

The Gator GPT-PRO-PWR is a traditional style pedalboard that comes bundled with a power supply and a carrying case. The pedalboard is crafted from plywood, and is covered in Tolex material. This particular model is quite big, with a usable surface area of 30" x 16" - more than enough space for attaching more than 10 standard size pedals. The board is angled for easier access to the pedals, and for providing space for a power supply at the bottom. Speaking of power supply, the GPT-PRO-PWR is bundled with a G-Bus-8 which has 8 x 9V and 3 x 18V outputs. They supply the expected 8 x 9V connectors but oddly enough only a single 18V connector so if want to use the other 2 x 18v outputs you'll have to look for extra connectors. In case you need another power supply, the board has enough room for a second one, which many users put to good use with positive results. Like others in this list, hook and loop strips serve as pedal fasteners. Finally, this big board is bundled with a matching carrying case with two storage pockets for cables and other accessories.

Pros

Many users admire the Gator GPT-PRO-PWR's overall build quality, from its solid-feeling sloped pedalboard, down to the zippers of the bundled bag. Gigging musicians find its practical features to be its best strength, most notable of which are the two big pockets on the bag for carrying accessories and cables. A lot of users also commend the power supply's quality, and while others are happy that they can add an additional power supply without much hassle.

Cons

It goes without saying that this board is bulky and heavy, especially when packed to the brim with pedals. As such, many users caution that it's not easy to haul around. There are some who received boards that required fixing out of the box, like stapling some parts of the tolex on the board. A few others are concerned about the thin power cables, and cautioned other users to handle them with care.

Overall

If you are looking for a big pedalboard with built-in power supply for your stompbox collection then the Gator GPT-PRO-PWR is your best bet.

Things To Consider When Buying a Pedalboard

Pedalboard Real Estate

Knowing the space you need should be simple if you have standard size pedals, but it becomes more complex if you own pedals with different shapes and sizes. To give you a better idea of the size differences, we have listed the dimensions (W x D x H) of popular pedals below:

Pedal Dimensions

Pedal

Dimensions

Boss Pedals (Standard Size)

2.875" x 5.125" x 2.375"

MXR Pedals (Standard Size)

2.375" x 4.375" x 1.25"

DigiTech Pedals (Standard Size)

3.125" x 4.9375" x 2.125"

Behringer Pedals (Standard Size)

2.75" x 4.8" x 2.125"

Electro-Harmonix Nano Pedals

2.2" x 4.3" x 2"

Strymon BigSky (Big Wide)

6.75" x 5.1"

Fuzz Face (Big Circular)

7.75" x 10.75" x 3.5"

Cry Baby Wah (Big Tall)

4" x 10" x 2.5"

Vox Volume Pedal (Big Tall)

3.54" x 10.55" x 2.44"

You'll notice that standard size pedals require around 3" x 5" of space, which is a good number to work with. While the Cry Baby Wah's dimensions should be the standard for most tall expression type pedals. Wide pedals will have very different dimensions so you'll have to consider each one and plan for them individually. In addition to the size of your pedals, patch cables also take space and must be considered. Note that while weight difference of small and big boards can be minimal, the actual weight difference will be bigger when you factor in the weights of the extra pedals that are added. To help you decide on the size, we have provided the actual dimensions of each one, along with pictures that show actual pedal placements on the boards to give you a visual idea of how your pedals will sit on the board.

Power Supply

For convenience, some manufacturers build power supplies directly into their pedalboards, while others are bundled with dedicated power supplies that are mounted on the board. You can also get a stand alone power supply, but the goal is the same for all of them - to have enough power and cables for the pedals that you're using. The bad news is that pedal manufacturers don't always follow the follow the standard 9V power supply, which means that you should check your pedals to be on the safe side. The most common examples are pedals that require 12V or 18V. Note that using the wrong power supply may damage your pedal, so it is best to check the specifications. Another issue is that some pedals can be too power hungry, tipping the required current over the power supply's capacity. So if you have one or more of these power hogs then take this into account when purchasing.

Plywood vs Aluminum vs Plastic

Plywood continues to be the material of choice for many musicians, because of its simplicity and practicality. Since it is made of wood, it can be easily customized, by drilling holes, making cuts or adding wood bits. On the other hand, Aluminum is in demand because it's lighter and more rigid, ideal for people who are always on the move. Plastic boards sit somewhat in between, they are sturdy, a little heavier than aluminum, and are usually more affordable.

Flat vs Angled Profile

Angled or sloped pedalboards are becoming popular because of the space they provide underneath for power supplies and cables. The slanted profile also make reaching rear pedals easier. Flat pedalboards are more straightforward and store more easily, it is the default configuration for most compact pedalboards.

Carrying Case

One of the reasons why custom pedalboards can be a pain is that you'll also have to customize a fitting carrying case. Thankfully, most ready-made pedalboards come with soft or hard carrying cases. Soft cases are lighter and easier to carry, while hard cases are heavier but offer more protection. Some of these carrying cases have pockets for carrying accessories, which helps simplify transport and setup.

Velcro, Cables and Accessories

Most pedalboards utilize Hook-and-Loop Velcro as pedal fastener, and some manufacturers provide them along with the board. There are also those that come bundled with zip ties for better cable positioning. Some even provide 1/4" patch cables for connecting your pedals, so setting up will be easy out of the box. While having these accessories can be a good bonus, many users cautioned that their quality maybe sub-par, compared to those that can be bought separately. To give you a better idea of how modern pedalboards are setup, checkout the Pedaltrain Setup video below:

Best Pedalboard Selection Methodology

First, we looked at all popular and top rated pedalboards that are being sold by major USA retailers. For this update, our short list expanded to 29 pedalboards, which required us to gather even more relevant data. We ended up feeding data from over 4,800 reviews ratings and forum discussions into the Gearank algorithm. The result of this process gave us scores that better represent current market sentiment, which we then used to filter our short list to only a few well deserving pedalboards to recommend above.

Like the previous iteration of this guide, we decided to divide the list into powered and unpowered groups, to make categorization easier. We also included important details like pedalboard dimension, material, weight and type of carrying case, along with a summary of notable pros and cons as reported to by actual users. For more information about this process see How Gearank Works.